Aadhaar is a unique 12-digit identification number that is issued by the Government of India through UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India). This unique number is given to every resident of India and is vital for many reasons. The Aadhaar Number is proof of one’s identity and allows the citizens to avail of government schemes and benefits.
Aadhaar Number includes biometric information of the cardholder, which includes iris scans, and fingerprints. It also has demographic data like name, DOB, Gender, Address, Photograph of the cardholder, and Aadhaar Number which is unique to every citizen.
Aadhaar cards can be used as identity proof and help in accessing government services, availing subsidies, opening bank accounts, and more. There are two main categories into which Aadhaar cards have been divided- Aadhaar Card for elders and Aadhaar Card for children. The Aadhaar card for adults is common knowledge and includes biometric data of the individual.
Today, we will talk about the Aadhaar Card for children under five, known as the Baal Aadhaar card or Blue Aadhaar card. These cards require no biometric data. Let us understand how this Baal Aadhaar card can be applied for and what are its advantages.
What is Blue Aadhaar Card?
The Baal or Blue Aadhaar Card was introduced by UIDAI in 2018 for children below the age of five years. This provides them with unique identification and unlike the regular Aadhaar card, this one doesn’t need biometric information. It only has a photograph of the child, gender details, and an Aadhaar number.
Parents of Guardians must get the Baal Aadhaar card updated with biometric information when the child turns five and again at the age of 15.
Documents Required to Apply for Baal Aadhaar Card
- Parents who are applying for the Aadhaar card of their newborn baby can present either the birth certificate or the hospital discharge slip as a valid document for registering Blue Aadhaar Card.
- If the child is older, their school ID can also be used to apply for a Baal Aadhaar Card.
- Parent’s Aadhaar card is mandatory.
- Address Proof is mandatory.
- Two passport-size photos of the child will be needed.
Why the name ‘Blue Aadhaar Card’?
The term Blue Aadhaar Card is used to denote Baal Aadhaar Card because these cards are printed in blue color and thus look different from cards for adults. Color difference allows easy communication and understanding, and reminds the parents to get biometrics updated at the age of 5.
Steps to get a Blue Aadhaar Card (Online)
- Go to UIDAI’s website- www.uidai.gov.in
- Click on the Aadhaar Card Registration Option.
- Key in your child’s name, parent’s name, contact number, and other required information.
- Choose a suitable appointment time for registration.
- Schedule an appointment at the nearest enrollment center, at your convenience.
- Go to the enrollment center with your child at the selected time and date.
- Carry important documents like your Aadhaar card, address proof, and your child’s valid documents with you. Your Aadhaar details will be linked to your child’s till he/she turns 15.
- Biometric information will not be needed, so only one photograph of your child will be clicked at the center.
- This begins the document verification process, which one completed, you will get a message conveying the same on your RMN.
- Collect the acknowledgment slip for proof purposes.
- Blue Aadhaar card/Baal Aadhaar card will be delivered to your doorstep within 60 days of verification.
- If you want to check the status of your Aadhar application, visit the official website.
Applying for a Blue Aadhaar Card (Offline)
- Search for your nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Permanent Enrollment Center.
- Call and inform the officials about your requirement for a Baal Aadhaar Card.
- Complete the Aadhaar enrollment form with all the needed details.
- Submit the form to the officials.
Advantages of having a Blue Aadhaar Card
- Blue Aadhaar Card allows access to various government schemes.
- It helps the government identify genuine students from fake ones, which makes it easier to provide EWS scholarships.
- Various schools also ask for a Blue Aadhaar Card as part of the admission process.
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